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The Most Beautiful Places in Sardinia: Itinerary and Tips
The Most Beautiful Places in Sardinia: A Complete Travel Guide and Map
I’ve taken four round-trip tours of Sardinia, each lasting about 2 to 3 weeks, the last one in May 2024. In this article, I’ll take you on a tour of Sardinia’s most beautiful spots, along with personal tips, unique places to stay, and practical travel advice.
Would you like to discover the most beautiful spots in Sardinia? The island will surprise you with its turquoise bays, mountainous landscapes, mysterious nuraghi, and colorful villages. It’s the ideal destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking peace and quiet.
1. Northern Sardinia: The Most Beautiful Beaches and Islands
Highlights: Stintino, Costa Smeralda, Maddalena Islands, Castelsardo
The north coast is a mix of rugged coastlines, luxurious seaside resorts, and hidden coves.
La Pelosa Beach near Stintino: clear, shallow water; beautiful but crowded, especially in the summer.
Asinara National Park: once a prison, but now a protected island symbolized by the white donkey.
Costa Smeralda: luxury and nature—be sure to explore the quiet coves near Porto Rafael or Cannigione as well.
Maddalena Archipelago: sail past pink-sand beaches and snorkel in turquoise bays.
Castelsardo: one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, full of narrow alleys and ocean views. The sea is just a short distance away everywhere you go. The “Elephant Rock” is a large volcanic boulder shaped remarkably like an elephant.
Costa Paradiso: the area between Tinnari and Spiaggia del Porto la Cruzitta. Beautiful pink-colored rocks with dense Mediterranean vegetation and an emerald-green sea. At Li Cossi Beach, with its pink trachyte rocks, you’ll find a fine sandy beach.
Santa Teresa di Gallura: the northernmost tip of Sardinia. Sometimes you can see the cliffs of Corsica from here. The town is situated at an elevation of about 40 meters and has a few very beautiful beaches. Spiaggia Rena Bianca is located in the village and features crystal-clear water that slopes gently into the sea. Cala Spinoza is tucked away in a quieter spot among the rocks. La Torre di Longonsardo is surrounded by a walking trail that you can reach from Rena Bianca Beach.
Special tip: Go biking or hiking on the island of Caprera: peace, nature, and history.
The Maddalena Islands: Beautiful Hiking and Crystal-Clear Blue Seas
A group of 7 islands (and many small islets surrounding them), with La Maddalena as the main island. Beautiful beaches, coves, and the clearest turquoise water. Two of the islands are inhabited (Maddalena and Caprera) and connected by a bridge. The remaining islands are uninhabited. The town of La Maddalena is a small seaside resort with restaurants, shops, and ice cream parlors.
There are also a number of hotels on the island of Maddalena. It’s definitely worth staying here for a few days to go hiking or biking.
The archipelago has a national park with 18,000 hectares of protected area and no less than 180 kilometers of coastline. It is home to more than 700 different plant species and serves as a breeding ground for seabirds such as cormorants and gulls. Moreover, its mild climate makes it a pleasant place to visit all year round.
This is a wonderful destination for a day trip on a sailboat. Two of the islands are inhabited; the rest are uninhabited. Take a dip in the water as you sail past Spargi, Budelli—with its pink-sand beach—and Santa Maria. Go snorkeling.
Several boats depart from Palau for day trips. It’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance, although you can also buy tickets on the spot outside of peak season. All the tours follow more or less the same route.
You can also take a day trip by bike to La Maddalena and Caprera. On a mountain bike or e-bike, you’ll ride through the Maddalena National Park in a small group, go for a swim, and sample Sardinian specialties at the market.
Nuraghe in Sardinia
Nuraghi are mysterious towers in Sardinia dating from the Bronze Age (ca. 1,500 B.C.). They can be found all over the island, particularly in the interior. They are now among Sardinia’s most important archaeological heritage sites. There are likely more than 6,000 of them. These simple towers, varying in height, served as refuges or as the foundation for a village.
2. Eastern Sardinia: Hiking in the Gorropu Gorge and Wild Nature
The distance from Olbia to Orosei is approximately 85 km.
The east coast of Sardinia is perfect for nature lovers and active travelers.
Gorropu Gorge: one of the deepest gorges in Europe; an impressive hike.
Cala Goloritzè & Cala Luna: hidden coves with azure-blue water.
Baunei & Supramonte: a wild mountainous region with ancient forests and rocky outcrops.
Posada: one of Sardinia’s most beautiful villages, with about 3,000 residents. At the foot of the village lies the Rio Posada Valley, with its stunning natural scenery. You can reach it by kayak. Near San Giovanni, you can go birdwatching—including the pink flamingo. You’ll find many kitesurfers on the beach.
Orosei is a beautiful little town on the fertile plain along the Cedrino River. Take a dip in Cala Liberotto.
Dorgali: Further inland, you’ll come to the Tomba dei Giganti S’Ena e Thomes—impressive tombs from the Early Bronze Age (1800–1600 BC)—and Serra Orrios, a nuraghe village in Dorgali.
Cala Gonone: Cala Gonone rises right in the middle of the Gulf of Orosei. Perched on a steep hill at the foot of the extinct Codula Manna volcano, it slopes down toward the gulf. From here, you can explore several beautiful coves: Cala Ziu Martine, Cala Fuili, Cala Cartoe, and Cala Luna, a stunning cove dominated by steep cliffs.
Baunei and Canyon Gorropu: Continue south and inland, and you’ll find Baunei. A mountain village behind which lies one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean: Cala Goloritzè. This small beach (accessible on foot in about an hour’s walk) allows a maximum of 250 visitors per day.
Canyons such as the spectacular Gorropu Canyon, karst valleys, steep limestone cliffs, Su Sterru, and the famous Gorropu Gorge—a natural funnel nearly 300 meters deep.
Hiking route tip: From Dorgali to Gorropu via the Oddoene Valley. Ancient forests, caves, and nuraghi.
The Gorropu Gorge
We took a hike to the Gorropu Gorge, also known as Su Gorropu. There are several access routes, some a bit more challenging and others easier hiking trails. We took a jeep from Cala Gonone to the trailhead for the gorge (cost: about €20). From there, it’s about a 2-hour hike to the gorge. You can also choose to have the jeep pick you up only for the return trip (uphill).
There you’ll find unique flowers and plants, as well as the euproto, Europe’s rarest amphibian. It is the most impressive gorge in Italy and in Europe.
Note: Admission to the gorge is approximately €6 (cash). There are three hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, available with or without a guide. More information about the Gorropu Gorge.
You can also drive from Dorgali to the hiking trail leading to the gorge via the Oddoene Valley (drive to the s’Abba Arva Bridge). From there, continue on foot past ancient forests, caves, and nuraghes.
3. Southern Sardinia, flamingos, white beaches, and tranquility
Highlights: Costa Rei, Villasimius, Cagliari, Sant’Antioco
The distance from Orosei to Villasimius is approximately 185 km.
Here you’ll find the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia, where the sea resembles that of the Caribbean.
Costa Rei & Punta Molentis: white sand, crystal-clear water—perfect for families with children.
Villasimius: a lively coastal town with idyllic coves.
Flamingos near Cagliari: Spot thousands of birds at sunset in Parco Molentargius.
The Islands of Sant’Antioco and San Pietro: peaceful islands with an authentic character and a beautiful coastline.
Instagrammable: the Capo Sandalo lighthouse on Isola di San Pietro.
Isola Sant’Antioco: Less Well-Known, Stunning Nature and Beaches
The peninsula in southwestern Sardinia is accessible by car via a bridge. It has a rich history, as it was a strategic location on the Phoenicians’ trade route. The peninsula is still relatively undiscovered by international tourists, but it is very popular among Italians themselves.
Isola Sant’Antioco boasts beautiful natural scenery and stunning beaches. For example, Maladroxia near Sant’Antioco, with its thermal waters, or Cala Lunga Beach near Calasetta. There are also charming historic towns, such as the capital, Sant’Antioco (the oldest town in Sardinia), and Calasetta.
“Nido dei Passeri” (Sparrow’s Nest) near Calasetta is a spot between two rocks where many birds nest. It’s not very easy to find, but well worth the effort. Park your car in the large square. From there, it’s about a 200-meter walk. Walk a little further to the Mangiabarche lighthouse, located on a small island off the coast. It’s a beautiful spot.
Sant’Antioco is located about 85 km from Cagliari
Isola di San Pietro
Next to Isola Sant’Antioco lies Isola di San Pietro. This small island can be reached by boat from Calasetta on Isola Sant’Antioco (about 45 minutes). You can board the boat on foot or by car. Isola di San Pietro has many North African and Ligurian influences. Don’t miss the beautiful Carloforte Lighthouse, built in 1864, and Capo Sandalo with its rocky cliffs.
4. Western Sardinia: desert dunes, culture, and quiet beaches
Highlights: Piscinas, the Sinis Peninsula, Bosa, Alghero
The distance from Cagliari to Alghero is approximately 260 km.
The west coast is surprisingly diverse: rugged nature, archaeology, and culture.
Piscinas Beach: enormous sand dunes like those in the Sahara.
Sinis Peninsula & Tharros: white beaches and ancient ruins.
The Santa Cristina Archaeological Park, featuring a nuraghe village and a sacred spring, is located along the SS131.
Bosa: a colorful fishing village on the river, wonderfully authentic.
Alghero: a charming “Catalan” town overlooking Capo Caccia.
Tip: Rent a bike or an electric two-seater from Velsar in Alghero and explore Porto Conte.
5. The Sardinian Hinterland: Hiking, Nuraghi, and Silence
Highlights: Foresta Marganai, nuraghi, menhirs
Sardinia is more than just beaches. Inland, you’ll find tranquility, forests, and history.
Foresta Marganai: a green and cool mountainous region teeming with wildlife.
Nuraghi & menhirs: mysterious remnants from the Bronze Age.
Santa Cristina & Santu Antine: archaeological sites surrounded by nature.
Adventure tip: Take the Trenino Verde into the countryside. Slow but unforgettable
Foresta Marganai, a nature reserve in southwestern Sardinia
This forest is one of the richest and greenest areas in southern Sardinia. The Marganai National Forest is located in the Sulcis-Iglesias area in southwestern Sardinia. The national forest covers no less than 3,650 hectares of the territory of Domusnovas, Fluminimaggiore, and Iglesias.
A beautiful hiking area in one of Italy’s oldest mountain regions. Rugged peaks ranging from 200 to 1,000 meters in height. Extensive forests of holm oaks and pine trees.
Along the streams, you may encounter wild boars, wildcats, hares, and foxes. In some areas, the Corsican red deer and the mouflon have been reintroduced. In addition, peregrine falcons and, more rarely, golden eagles can be seen here. The Linasia Botanical Garden and the Grotta di San Giovanni are worth a visit.
In the summer, it’s wonderfully cool there for a walk. You can reach the forest via the SS126 Iglesias-Guspini or via the SS130, taking the Domusnovas exit. It does take a bit of searching, though.
A unique spot surrounded by nature. Just 2 rooms with a garden right on the beach. Plenty of hiking opportunities in the area. Read more about it here I Liberotti, a wonderful spot by the sea.
I Liberotti in Orosei
Glamping Butterfly House in Olmedo, near Alghero
Stay in glamping tents at a beautiful nature park featuring a unique butterfly garden within a biosphere reserve. A one-of-a-kind overnight stay surrounded by nature. Read more here Glamping Butterfly House.
Butterfly House Sardinia
Agriturismo Pira Pinta
A delightful agriturismo with a pool in Dorgali, near the Gorropu Gorge. You can choose from rooms or apartments at this welcoming agriturismo, which features farm animals and produces its own wine and cheese. Read more about Agriturismo Pira Pinta.
Agriturismo Pira Pinta
Agriturismo Sa Conca Ruia
A warm welcome near Orosei. Antonio and Martina extend a warm welcome to you at their agriturismo. Delicious local cuisine, a beautiful (hidden) location in a lovely hiking area. Read more about Agriturismo Sa Conca Ruia.
Agriturismo Sa Conca Ruia
Wind in Sardinia
It can get quite windy in Sardinia. In the summer, the breeze provides a pleasant coolness, which is why the island is so popular with sailors.
The Maestrale is the strongest wind on the island, blowing from the northwest.
In addition, the Grecale is a strong wind from the northeast
Practical Tips: How to Discover the Most Beautiful Places in Sardinia
How do you get there?
Flights to Olbia or Cagliari (Transavia, EasyJet, KLM). Also check flights from Brussels and Düsseldorf.
Mobylines ferries from Italy (Livorno, Genoa, etc.).
Transportation
Rent a (hybrid) car
Some roads are narrow and unpaved; please drive carefully
Best time to visit
May, June, September, and October: pleasant, peaceful, and everything is in bloom
July & August: busier, mainly due to Italian vacationers
Sardinia has four distinct regions, each with its own highlights. In the north, the Maddalena Islands and La Pelosa Beach near Stintino are must-sees. On the east coast, the Gorropu Gorge and Cala Goloritzè Bay are the biggest draws. In the south, the flamingos near Cagliari and the island of Sant’Antioco stand out. The interior surprises visitors with its mysterious nuraghi and the Foresta Marganai. If you want to see it all, you’ll need at least ten days.
When is the best time to visit Sardinia if you want to go hiking and enjoy nature?
May and June are the best months for hiking or biking. The macchia is in bloom, the Gorropu Gorge is easily accessible, and daytime temperatures average between 18 and 24 degrees. The beaches are practically empty, the agriturismi have plenty of room, and prices are significantly lower than in the summer.
September and October are the best options. The sea is still warm enough for a swim, nature is at its most beautiful after the dry summer, and the island has regained its peaceful atmosphere. Hiking trails in the interior are therefore easily accessible.
July and August are busier and hotter, with temperatures reaching over 35 degrees inland. Long walks can be tough during this time; beaches and coastal towns are crowded, especially with Italian vacationers. It is, however, the best time to visit if you’re looking for nothing but sun and sea.
November through April is quiet and green, but mountain trails can be slippery after rain. The Gorropu Gorge is sometimes inaccessible after heavy rainfall due to high water levels in the gorge.
How many days do you need for a tour of Sardinia?
The most popular trip duration is ten to fourteen days: enough time to visit three or four regions without having to change accommodations every day. Eight days is enough to explore either the north or the south; with fourteen days, you can also include the interior. Keep in mind that Sardinia is larger than most people realize; it’s over 270 kilometers from north to south, and the roads are narrow and winding.
Is Sardinia a good place for a hiking vacation?
Absolutely. The island has hiking trails for every level, from accessible coastal paths to challenging mountain hikes. The Gorropu Gorge in the east is one of Italy’s most impressive hikes. Along the southwest coast, there are multi-day coastal routes, such as the 8-day route past Sant’Antioco and San Pietro. Inland, trails wind through the Foresta Marganai and past nuraghi. A rental car is essential for reaching the trailheads.
How difficult is the hike to the Gorropu Gorge?
The hike to Gorropu is perfectly manageable for most people in good physical condition, but it does require some preparation. The trail is unpaved and runs over large limestone boulders. Sturdy hiking boots aren’t just a luxury—they’re essential. Be sure to bring plenty of water. Expect a total hiking time of three to four hours for the round trip, depending on your pace and how far you venture into the gorge.
The gorge itself ends after a few hundred meters at large boulders that block the passage. Continuing further requires climbing experience and equipment. For most visitors, the starting point of the gorge is more than worth the trip.
Best time to visit: May and June or September. In the height of summer, the heat makes the trail difficult; after heavy rainfall in the winter, the water level in the gorge may be too high to walk safely.
Access: You can reach the starting point either by jeep shuttle from Cala Gonone (approximately €20 per person; return trip can also be booked separately) or by car through the Oddoene Valley from Dorgali to the s’Abba Arva Bridge. Admission to the gorge itself costs approximately €6. Payment in cash is required at the entrance.
Difficulty: moderate. No technical climbing, but the terrain is unpaved and some physical fitness is required.
How do you travel from north to south in Sardinia?
Most travelers rent a car; that is by far the most practical option. The main north-south highway is the SS131 (the “Statale”), which connects Cagliari to the north via Sassari. For a longer stay, the Trenino Verde is a unique alternative: a historic narrow-gauge train that traverses the interior at a pace that suits the island.
Can you book direct with the owner in Sardinia?
Yes, and that’s exactly what we recommend. The agriturismi, bed & breakfasts, and small-scale nature accommodations on NatureTravelLab can all be booked direct with the owner (without going through large booking platforms). This way, your travel budget goes directly to the local business owner, and you’ll have personal contact regarding your stay and the surrounding area. Check out our Sardinian accommodations in nature.
Why Sardinia?
For me, Sardinia is the perfect place to combine peace and quiet, nature, and culture. Every part of the island has its own charm. From hikes through rugged mountainous areas to relaxing on a secluded beach, you can still find truly unspoiled spots there.
Want to discover Sardinia’s most beautiful spots on your own? Plan your trip carefully, take your time in each region, and let yourself be surprised. Sardinia isn’t a destination you visit just once. I keep coming back.
With a passion for travel and photography and over 30 years of experience in the travel industry, I love to share my special nature travel tips. Travel is wonderful and important, you meet new people and cultures and it opens your view of the world.
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Peloponnese Hiking Tour
A really beautiful six-day hike from Bologna to Florence. Communication with NatureTravelLab and the local agent was excellent. The information packet was waiting for us at the hotel in Bologna, and the app with the route worked great. Luggage transport was well organized every day, and our bags were waiting for us each time we arrived at our new room! We covered more than 1,400 meters of elevation gain, but unfortunately didn’t always get the views we’d hoped for due to cloud cover and some drizzle. Most days had great hiking weather. It was wonderful to walk into Florence on foot and stay there an extra day.
We experienced the Walk of the Gods as a great adventure. Our start in Bologna didn’t go quite as planned because our app wasn’t working yet and we couldn’t find a single sign for Via degli Dei in the square. Fortunately, we were quickly able to join two young hikers from Florence who were also doing the hike. After a wonderful night’s stay at the beautiful Rio Verde agritourism farm, Day 2 went much better with the help of the hiking app. Along the way, we enjoyed stunning views, met some great fellow hikers, and sampled delicious local dishes. Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t always on our side, and we had a day of heavy rain, which made the trail very slippery and required us to be careful. It’s a real treat when, on the last day, you can already see Florence in the distance and walk into this beautiful city a few hours later. Thank you so much for your quick and friendly responses to all our questions.
We enjoyed the trip. We also made some changes to our itinerary, and the email correspondence went very smoothly. We started in Mantera; the next day, our first and only hike was a really beautiful one. The taxi picked us up right on time. Unfortunately, the second day’s route was almost the same when we cycled to Ostuni. The bikes were well-maintained, including panniers and helmets (these were simply included). You could even bring your own water bottle!!! We found the route very scenic and varied. There were charming little villages where we could stop for lunch or coffee. The app worked great. All the hotels ranged from good to excellent, though we didn’t think the hotel in Leuca was worthy of 4 stars. We followed your advice for the two nights we stayed there. We found Leuca a bit underwhelming for a two-day stay. We would have preferred to stay in Gallipoli or Lecce for two days. We took this trip in April and were very lucky with the weather. It’s still a quiet time of year, but we didn’t mind that. We definitely recommend it!!!
Thanks to a great tip from Nature Travel Lab, we had a wonderful week in Italy. Fattoria di Maiano, just outside Florence, was a beautiful and peaceful place. And the suggested road trips were a great guide for exploring the region. We’ll definitely check here for tips for our next vacation, too. Highly recommended!
We spent a divine week in Italy: we walked the Path of the Gods, from Bologna to Florence—about 135 km spread over 6 days of hiking. Challenging distances and climbs, amazing views, nature, and a warm welcome every time we arrived at the agriturismo or albergo/hotel. All of this was perfectly organized by the Italian company Slow Active Tours, entirely in line with Nature Travel Lab’s itinerary proposal: upon arrival in Bologna, an information packet was waiting for us, complete with a hiking map, a booklet, and passports for the stamps. And the hiking app was very practical for along the way! Our luggage was transported every day and was always waiting for us when we arrived at the next location. Communication was smooth and clear. In short, highly recommended, well worth it, and well-organized.
In September, I walked the Cammino Materano. Communicating with Madelon about the booking was a pleasure. To be honest, I was quite nervous because it was my first time doing a multi-day hike—alone and in a region I wasn’t familiar with—but I thoroughly enjoyed it. The hike to Matera was beautiful, and I was able to complete it without any trouble thanks to the clear on-site signage and the routing and advice provided by the GPS app. The rest of the organization was top-notch as well. My luggage always arrived on time at the right destination, and the hotels and B&Bs were of high quality. In addition, the organizers were easy to reach via WhatsApp if I had any questions. Highly recommended!
Slovenia was absolutely amazing. A beautiful country, friendly people, lovely hiking trails, and truly top-notch hotels. The staff at the local organization were also very easy to reach and helpful. The hiking was manageable. As Dutch people, we’re not used to high altitudes, of course, so it was pretty tough at times. But it was also a lot of fun.
We had a wonderful trip. Everything was well organized. Due to an unfortunate fall, I ended up traveling with my luggage for a day, but that was handled well, too. We really liked all the accommodations. Only the Hotel Hebe in St. Piero a Sieve was a little less impressive, but it was still okay.
Looks fantastic! I'm definitely going to book a trip with this company... they're committed to sustainability and personalized advice. Definitely worth it.
Madelon and her team are true experts. Thanks to their years of experience and passion for travel, they manage to surprise us time and time again.
Beautiful hikes, the most picturesque spots—it’s a real treat.
I highly recommend them!
Nature Travel Lab provided us with very helpful and honest assistance!
If you’re looking for travel itineraries, the most beautiful hikes, and destinations, you can find it all here. You’ll find endless inspiration for your next trip. Beautiful cities are interspersed with nature. You’ll find everything you need to know about practical matters. Plus, there are plenty of tips for sustainable travel. That way, you’ll get the most out of your trip.
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